Caribbean Sedge

Carex polystachya

Native to:
Argentina, Belize, Bolivia, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Guatemala, Guyana, Haiti, Honduras, Jamaica, Leeward Is., Mexico, Nicaragua, Panamá, Peru, Puerto Rico, United States, Windward Is.

📍 View on iNaturalist →

Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Cyperaceae
Genus:
Carex
Species:
Carex polystachya
USDA Symbol:
CAPO5

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:
Perennial
Growth Habit:
Graminoid
Height:
90 cm
Light Requirements:
Part Shade
Drought Tolerance:
Low
Bloom Months:
may,jun

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:
birds, small mammals
Deer Resistant:
Yes

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
moist, nutrient-rich, well-drained soil
Drainage:
tolerates poor drainage
Moisture:
consistently moist

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:
Cold/moist stratification required — 30–60 days
Germination Time:
14–45 days
Notes:
Seeds require light for germination and consistent moisture. Surface sow or barely cover.